Tag Archives: The Remains

Roundup: Get Ready For Snow! And More, Of Course …

Posted on January 24, 2026 | 6 comments

Stocking up on bread and milk before a big snowstorm is not just a myth.

Westporters flocked to grocery stores all over town yesterday, preparing 48 hours early for whatever Mother Nature hurls our way. (The latest prediction is for a foot or more, beginning Sunday morning and continuing into Monday.)

These were scenes at Trader Joe’s:

(Photo/Jennifer Johnson)

(Photo/Jennifer Johnson)

(Photo/Lynn Untermeyer Miller)

The store usually restocks every night.

If they didn’t get a shipment of your favorite item, they’ll be out today.

And you’ll be s— out of luck.

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In other Big Snow news, Ciara Webster sends along a reminder: When you dig out, don’t forget your vents.

Carbon monoxide can build up — and kill.

Thanks, Ciara!

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Meanwhile, this was the temperature this morning — after the sun rose — on Saugatuck Shores:

(Photo/DinkinESH Fotografix)

Stay warm!

And of course, once the snow flies: Send your photos to 06880blog@gmail.com.

We live for this stuff.

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There will no doubt be many cancellations on Sunday (and, over 5,000 Westport students hope, on Monday too).

Here’s one for today: New York Polyphony, scheduled for 5 p.m. at Christ & Holy Trinity Church. Organizers are concerned that the musicians would have problems returning home.

In addition, Monday’s “Pie & Politics” League of Women Voters event, set for Lyfe Café, has already been postponed.

New dates will be announced for both.

New York Polyphony

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Residents who subscribe to town meeting notices grew concerned yesterday, when they read the agenda for the Historic District Commission’s February 10 session (7 p.m., Zoom).

Among the items: “To take such action as the meeting may determine to oppose the issuance of the demolition permit for 50 Post Road West and require the full 180-day delay.”

That’s the Greek Revival structure — once owned by the Sherwood family — that for nearly 2 centuries has stood halfway up the hill, near the downtown bridge.

In July, “06880” reported that Westporter Tomás Botero would be renovating it, creating 13 apartments.

Had plans changed?

Fortunately, no.

The demolition permit is for the building in back. The Cape-style structure is in bad structural shape, and will be demolished. Four more apartments will be added there, in a new barn-style building.

Twenty percent of the 17 units will be affordable, according to state guidelines.

Other demolition requests on the HDC agenda include:

  • 8 Canal Road
  • 183 Hillspoint Road
  • 19 Turkey Hill Road North
  • 11 Dogwood Lane.

Click here for links to all related materials.

PS: Want to get on the mailing list for town meetings and agendas? Click here, and follow the prompts.

50 Post Road West will not be torn down. It will be renovated, for 13 apartments.

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Nearly every day, it seems, VersoFest adds another great session.

The latest: a conversation with Bangles co-founder Susanna Hoffs and Alisyn Camerota. Hoffs will also perform. The event is March 6 (7 p.m., Westport Library).

After her work with that best-selling band, Hoffs has recorded solo albums,a nd collaborated with (among others) Elvis Costello and Rufus Wainwright.

She also published a novel, “The Bird Has Flown,” which NPR called “a valentine to music.”

Camerota — a Westport resident — is a veteran journalist, and rock memoirist.

Click here for tickets, and more information. Click here for full details on VersoFest — the Library’s celebration of music, media and creativity.

Susanna Hoffs

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The Westport Country Playhouse continues to add a variety of programs to its winter schedule.

“Laura & Linda Benanti: Mothers Know Best” (February 28, 8 p.m.) features Tony Award-winner Laura with her mother Linda, in a humorous show about mother-daughter relationships.

Isaac Mizrahi and his jazz band return (March 7, 8 p.m.), with comedy, commentary, and music from Sondheim and Blondie to Comden and Madonna.

“2motherpluckers” are back too, with their musical about motherhood (March 10, 7 p.m.).

Tickets go on sale Tuesday (January 27, 1 p.m.). Click here to purchase, and for more information 

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An adaptation of “America’s Lost Band” — a film about the Remains, the great group with Staples High School graduates Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs, who toured with the Beatles in 1966 but broke up on the brink of stardom — was one of CPTV’s 5 most-watched programs in 2025.

The film was produced by 1971 Staples grad Fred Cantor.

“Lost Band” was the only standalone documentary short in the top 5. Two were CPTV-produced episodic shows; the others were feature-length documentaries that premiered on CPTV.

Missed it — or want to see it again? Click here.

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Jerry Kuyper captured this intriguing “Westport … Naturally” scene at dawn yesterday, near Rayfield Road:

(Photo/Jerry Kuyper)

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And finally … the announcement that Bangles co-founder will be part of this year’s VersoFest (story above) brings to mind:

(Just another wintry weekend. Whether you’re leisurely sipping coffee, or panicking about the weather, here’s one way to pass the time: Click here to support “06880.” Thank you — and stay warm!)

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Posted in Entertainment, Local business, Local politics, Real estate, Weather, Westport Country Playhouse

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Roundup: Hamlet Update, VersoFest Finale, A Better Chance Honor …

Posted on April 7, 2025 | 17 comments

Representative Town Meeting member Matthew Mandell offers this update on the Hamlet at Saugatuck project:

Tonight (Monday, April 7, 6 p.m., Zoom), the third agenda item will be a discussion of the proposal.

April 28 is the date for public comment only, in person at Town Hall.

The Flood & Erosion Control Board met last week, and continued their Hamlet hearing to May 7. That may disrupt the Conservation Commission schedule, which is currently set for April 23 and 30.

The Architectural Review Board meets on April 10. They have not yet completed their review of the project.

Mandell says: “P&Z will go deep into May at this point” in its Hamlet discussion. “June is looking more and more a reality.”

The RTM member adds: “There are still other pieces – an 8-24 for use of town property will also need to be filed with P&Z, and that could slow up the timeline.

“The Historic District Commission will have to weigh in as well, as every building involved is under their jurisdiction, not just the historic ones on Railroad Place. The Board of Selectwomen acting as the Traffic Authority will also need to render decision on traffic and parking issues.

“A group of citizens, concerned with the impacts of the project, and calling itself the Westport Alliance for Saugatuck has formed and has become active.” Click here for their website.

Click here, then scroll down for all pending applications and recent approvals related to the Hamlet at Saugatuck.

The 21 Charles Street office building would be renovated, in the Hamlet’s plans. This view looks north on Charles Street. Franklin Street would become two-way — but only between Charles Street and Railroad Place (right side of rendering).

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Four great days of the 4th annual VersoFest ended yesterday.

Paul Shaffer — legendary “Saturday Night Live” performer, and musical director for both David Letterman and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — entertained a capacity Westport Library crowd.

He chatted with fellow “SNL” alum (and iconic Beehive Queen) Christine Ohlman. (He brought jingle bells too, in homage to Darlene Love’s famous
“Baby Please Come Home” Letterman appearances at Christmas.)

Paul Shaffer and Christine Ohlman. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

VersoFest is a huge undertaking. Congratulations to all who helped bring Patti Smith, the Wallflowers, 5iveFingaz, Bruce Springsteen’s people, and so much more to the “loudest library on earth.”

Speaking of which: The website I Love Libraries just gave it a shoutout.

The story — “The Hippest Damn Library in the Country” includes that exact quote from Talking Heads’ Chris Frantz.

It adds Doors drummer John Densmore’s description: “The coolest damn library, ever.”

Click here for the full story. (Hat tip: Dennis Jackson)

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At the risk of sounding self-promotional — but with the goal of promoting one of my favorite organizations in Westport — I pass along the news that A Better Chance of Westport is honoring me with their first-ever “Community Ally Award.”

It will be presented at the annual Dream Event gala (April 26, 6:30 p.m., Westport Library).

It’s a huge honor, for sure, and one that could be given to countless men and women who have helped the non-profit thrive over more than 2 decades, as it has provided educational and life benefits to dozens of young men of color from less-advantaged communities.

I will be thinking of all of them at the fundraiser. And I’ll be honored to honor the scholars themselves.

The highlight — as always — will be the speeches by the graduating seniors, and a returning alum (this year, Yoel Hooper-Antunez).

Click here for tickets, and more information. I hope to see you there!

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The gateways to Westport just got a nice more welcoming.

This past weekend, 6 Rotary Club signs were updated. They include the new Rotary International logo, and include a 4-sided inspirational message.

It is a wish for peace to prevail in our homes, schools, communities, and on earth.

Westport’s 2 Rotary Clubs worked together on the project, with global peace builders Rick Benson and Dennis Wong.

The signs are at I-95 Exit 17 (on the northbound island); the Sherwood Island Connector across from the transfer station; Post Road East, at the Southport line; Post Road West, in front of Whole Foods; Merritt Parkway Exit 41, across from the former Red Barn restaurant, and on Route 136 near Norwalk.

The sign by Merritt Parkway Exit 42 disappeared a few years ago.

Rotary sign near Merritt Parkway Exit 41.

In addition, a peace pole was installed at Compo Beach. It’s part of the renovation of the playground — a major project of the Westport Rotary Club, in honor of its 100th anniversary.

Compo Beach playground peace pole. (Photo/Matt Murray)

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The new documentary short adaptation of “America’s Lost Band” — the story about The Remains, the legendary-but-never-quite-made-it band with Westporters Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs, who opened for the Beatles on their final US tour — is drawing plenty of attention.

Feature stories in the Boston Globe, Deadline Hollywood and Hartford Courant have praised the film, and shined a new light on the rock group.

Rock at Night called it a “priceless documentary.” It’s produced by longtime Remains fan — and 1971 Staples High School graduate — Fred Cantor.

Interested? Tonight (Monday, 9:30 p.m.) “America’s Lost Band” has its television premiere on CPTV.

Tomorrow (Tuesday), it begins streaming on PBS platforms, and YouTube.

Click here for more details, and streaming links.

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Speaking of music: On Friday, high school jazz ensembles from around Connecticut — and as far away as Montreal — performed in the Essentially Ellington Competition & Festival at Greenwich High School.

Of course, Staples was there.

And of course, conductor Kevin Mazzarella’s musicians sounded superb.

Bands performed from 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. Two hours were set aside for instrumental master classes, and a performance by the faculty ensemble.

Staples Jazz Ensemble, with conductor Kevin Mazzarella (far left). (Hat tip and photo/Michael Mossman)

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Just added to the Levitt Pavilion calendar: The Disco Biscuits’ 30th anniversary tour (June 28, 7 p.m.).

The Philadelphia group pioneered “Trance-Fusion” — bridging the gap between electronic dance music and jam rock.

Members pre-sale tickets are available today (Monday), at 10 a.m. Tickets for the general public begin Friday (April 11, 10 a.m.). Click here to order.

The Disco Biscuts

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Among the upcoming events sponsored by Neighbors & Newcomers of Westport (which, if you think of it, encompasses just about everyone in town):

Spring coffee (April 11, 10 a.m., Mrs. London’s Bakery). Email membership@neighborsandnewcomersofwestport.com for more information.

Book group (April 24): “Olga Dies Dreaming,” by Xochitl Gonzalez). Email pohal@aol.com for details.

Cooking group (April 23): Alice in Wonderland High Tea: Themed dishes like
“Eat Me” cookies, tea sandwiches, scones and imaginative pastries; appropriate dress optional. Email mia.goldman@yahoo.com for details.

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Is there any bird more interesting-looking than a barred owl?

We’ve highlighted a few before in our daily “Westport … Naturally” feature.

But we’re always up for another good shot of this unique species.

Cathy Malkin spotted this guy on Oakview Circle:

(Photo/Cathy Malkin)

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And finally … in honor of the Staples Jazz Ensemble’s appearance at the Essentially Ellington event (story above):

(Welcome to another week — and another week of “06880” Roundups. As always, we’ll bring you tons of information, and news you can use. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Roundup: BOF Budgets, Remains On PBS, Staples STEM Champs …

Posted on February 21, 2025 | 2 comments

The Board of Finance begins its review of 2 proposed 2025-26 budgets on March 5 (7:30 p.m., Town Hall auditorium; livestream on Cablevision Channel 79, and westportct.gov).

First Selectwoman Jen Tooker will present the town budget. Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice and Board of Education chair Lee Goldstein offer the Westport Public Schools budget.

Click here to view Tooker’s proposed budget. Click here for Scarice and Goldstein’s proposed budget.

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The Remains remain Westport legends.

The band — including Staples High School grads Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs — were “how you told a stranger about rock ‘n’ roll,” raved young music critic Jon Landau.

They tore up Boston and New York, were signed by Epic Records, appeared on “Ed Sullivan” and “Hullabaloo” — and, in 1966, were an opening act on the Beatles’ last tour.

Then — on the brink, perhaps, of superstardom — the Remains broke up.

The Remains, back in the day.

Their story was told off-Broadway. Now they’re the stars of a PBS documentary.

“America’s Lost Band” captures the group on its return to Los Angeles, for the first time in 40 years. It shows the bond between 4 close friends, and the power of music that united them, decades after comingthisclose to the top.

The documentary was adapted from a feature-length film that played at film festivals 15 years ago. It was never released publicly, due to licensing costs and rights issues.

The film was produced by Fred Cantor. The 1971 Staples High School graduate — a longtime Remains fan and chronicler — previously produced “The High School That Rocked!,” about bands like the Doors, Yardbirds and Cream who played at Staples. It was the only documentary short at the 2018 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Film Series.

“Lost Band” was directed by Michael Stich, longtime director of “The Bold and the Beautiful.”

It will premiere on Connecticut’s PBS station, CPTV on April 7 (9:30 p.m.), and stream nationwide on CPTV’s platforms.

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The checks have been cashed. The food has been distributed.

And Earth Animal thanks everyone who contributed to the Post Road store’s holiday Mitten Project.

The pet supply store raised an astonishing $75,737 to combat food insecurity in Connecticut.

The money came from sales at Earth Animal, participation in Shop & Give events hosted by the local business community, private donations, and contributions from customers.

Earth Animal Ventures, based in Southport, matched every dollar raised.

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Staples High School students struck gold (and silver, and bronze) at the Connecticut STEM Fair.

Under the mentorship of teacher Amy Parent, young researchers presented innovative work across multiple categories at the virtual event earlier this month.

William Boberski captured first place in the Health and Medical Science category (completed projects), for research on diet composition’s effects on lifespan and colorectal cancer progression, using the Drosophila midgut model.

In the same category (for research proposals), Alexis Krenzer placed first for her plan to study curcumin’s potential role in epidermal growth factor driven cancers using C. elegans.

Ezra Schwartz took third, for his proposal on improving glenoid labral tear diagnosis through deep learning applications.

Jonathan Dobin-Smith snagged first place in the Environmental category, for a proposal to mitigate CO2 emissions through bio-concrete development using Cupriavidus necator.

William Kwong tied for second, with research on using curcumin to protect against microplastic damage in C. elegans.

Kendra Chen presented compelling research on generating biofuels from Connecticut microalgae, using bicarbonate as a carbon source.

The STEM Fair drew more than 250 student researchers, and as many judges from science and technology professions.

CT Stem Foundation is an all-volunteer organization. They are always looking for volunteers, including fair judges. Click here for more information.

Jonny Dobin-Smith, with his STEM Fair project.

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Seniors Aviva Ross and Amire Williams, juniors Benjamin Peterson and Emmett Zahler, sophomore Giselle Colon and freshman Noa Katz are Staples High School’s February Students of the Month.

Nominated by teachers, they “help make Staples a welcoming place for peers and teachers alike. They are the ‘glue’ of the school community: kind, cheerful, hard-working, trustworthy students who make Staples the special place it is.” 

From left: Emmett Zahler, Aviva Ross, Amire Williams, Noa Katz,, Giselle Colon, Benjamin Peterson.

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Of the many fundraisers at Sherwood Island State Park, STAR’s Walk & Roll is one of Westport’s favorites.

The non-profit supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and their families. This year’s event — bringing together people of all ages and abilities (the “roll” refers to the many attendees in wheelchairs) — is May 4. Money raised helps STAR continue providing essential programs and services.

For this year’s 20th annual event, STAR invites artists, designers and other creative types design the logo. The winning entry will be featured on t-shirts and promotional materials.

Contestants must take a guided tour of STAR’s Norwalk headquarters to gain inspiration and insight into STAR’s mission. Email kguthrie@starct.org to schedule a visit, or more information. The deadline is March 7.

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Yesterday’s Roundup described Mark Yurkiw’s Westport Rotary Club presentation, about relief efforts in Ukraine.

He partners with 2 non-profits. Ukraine Aid International restores infrastructure, while Ridgefield Responds focuses on family relocation.

Today, Yurkiw and his fellow volunteers will ship another container. This one is filled with $250,000 worth of used medical equipment, from a nursing home in Wilton.

They’re also raising another $8,000, to cover the costs of whatever they can’t ship today.

To donate money, equipment, medical supplies, or volunteer your time, click here call Ridgefield Responds: 646-873-0050. To donate to Ukraine Aid International, click here.

Mark Yurkiw has not forgotten his Ukrainian roots.

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Caribbean mountain folk music, bluegrass, country and gospel come together March 1, at Voices Cafe.

And it’s all in one show.

Rick Reyes & Santos de Palo highlight the 8 p.m. concert, at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport. The band includes guitar, drums, sax, bass and cuarto.

Voices Cafe offers tables or individual seating. Coffee and sweets are vailable for purchase; guests can bring their own beverages and snacks. Cconcerts support social justice programs in the area.

Tickets are $25 each. Click here for more information.

Rick Reyes

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Longtime Westporter Mary-Lou Weisman offers today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo.

And back story. She writes: “It’s morning. I lie in bed wrapped snug as a mummy in my quilt. I can see through the slit of space between the window and the shade that the leaves on the rhododendron bush outside are curled as tight as a Cuban cigar against the frigid polar air. Maybe I’ll stay in bed for a while. Maybe I’ll fall back asleep.

“But no. I spot 2 invading stink bugs, seeking indoor warmth — one clinging with all six legs to the TV screen, perhaps remembering the heat of last night’s news; the other snug as a bug on the the rug.

“Oh wee beasties, innocent intruders, I should feel sorry for you. You mean no harm. Like me, you only want to be warm.

“And you don’t even stink until I squish you.”

Stink bug, before squishing. (Photo/Mary-Lou Weisman)

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And finally … on this date in 1878, the first telephone directory was issued. The city: New Haven, Connecticut.

(“You can keep the dime,” Jim Croce sings. Or, you can give it — and any other amount — to “06880,” to help support this hyper-local blog. Please click here. And thank you!)

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Roundup: Media & The Election, Fashionably Westport, Rach’s Hope …

Posted on January 13, 2025 | 6 comments

The state of democracy and the media’s impact on it, globally and locally — plus AI, TikTok, fact checkers and more — were debated for nearly 2 hours yesterday.

A capacity crowd filled the Westport Library, to hear the Y’s Men of Westport and Weston-sponsored discussion.

Senator Richard Blumenthal; television journalists Alisyn Camerota and Dave Briggs of Westport, and John Berman (all now or formerly with CNN), along with “06880”‘s own Dan Woog answered questions from moderator John Brandt.

Staples High School Inklings advisors Mary Elizabeth Fulco and Joseph Del Gobbo, with editors Nina Bowens and Lily Hultgren, added student perspectives.

Click below to view the full event. It was fascinating.

Then again, I’m a biased media participant.

From left: Dave Briggs, Dan Woog, John Berman, Alisyn Camerota, Senator Richard Blumenthal. Inklings representatives Mary Elizabeth Fulco, Lily Hultgren and Nina Bowers stand in back. (Photo/Ted Horowitz)

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In just 4 years, Fashionably Westport has become one of our town’s most popular — and lively — fundraisers.

This year’s event is set for Friday, February 28 (7 p.m., Westport Library). Sponsored by the Westport Downtown Association, it’s a benefit for Homes with Hope.

The 5th annual Fashionably Westport show features the latest styles, from the town’s mot sophisticated and fashion-forward retailers.

The models are local friends and celebrities. The emcee and runway director are neighbors too: Dave Briggs and Carey Price, respectively.

Click here for tickets, and more information. To donate silent auctiono items, or become sponsors, email events@westportdowntown.com, or operations@westportdowntown.com.

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Last year, Rach’s Hope Walk the Extra Mile raised more than $20,000. The funds helped the non-profit that supports families with critically ill children in the ICU with an additional 100 nights of hotel stays, so parents can rest and recharge while staying close to their kids.

Rach’s Hope — which honors Rachel Doran, the Staples High School graduate and rising Cornell University senior, who died after developin a rare reaction to common medications — is getting ready for their 6th annual Rach’s Hope PJ Gala.

(Rachel was a talented Staples Players costume designer, and founded a pajama company.)

The date is Saturday, March 29 (7 to 11 p.m., FTC, Fairfield).

Festivities include an open bar with Tito’s cocktails, beer, wine and prosecco; heavy appetizers and desserts by AMG Catering; live music kicked off by Westport’s own Michael Cantor and Frog Salon, plus Rach’s Hope’s signature band, Ellis Island — and live and silent auctions too.

Tickets are on sale now (with early bird pricing through January 31). Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Enjoying the 2022 Rach’s Hope gala.

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Taking nature photos with your phone is easy.

But your images can be even better if you know what you’re doing.

Noted photographer Alison Wachstein leads a “Nature Photography with your Smartphone” event on February 23 (10 a.m. to noon).

She’ll do it at the perfect place: Sherwood Island State Park.

Attendees should meet at the main pavilion. There is an optional donation of $10 per family, to support the Friends of Sherwood Island garden team.

For more information on Friends of Sherwood Island, click here. To become a member, click the “Get Involved” tab.

Nature photo, at Sherwood Island State Park. (Photo/Deb Krayson)

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You can’t celebrate Valentine’s Day with Elvis. The “Love Me Tender” dude is booked. (And dead.)

But you can enjoy the day after with him.

“Love is in the Air” — which calls itself “Connecticut’s #1 Elvis Show” — comes to VFW Post 399 on February 15 (6:30 p.m.).

The Riverside Avenue club invites you to “celebrate the love of your life with the love songs of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.”

Tickets ($35 member, $40 non-member) include a buffet.  Click here to purchase. Questions? Call 302-312-3774. (Hat tip: Andrew Colabella)

Elvis was in the (VFW) building last month, with radio personality Matt Zako and VFW Auxiliary vice president Patty Kondub.

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Speaking of music: The New York Times says, “Ringo Starr maintains his perpetual optimism in ‘Look Up,’ the title track of his new, Nashville-centered album.

“Written by T Bone Burnett and Daniel Tashian, the song posits, ‘There’s a light that shines in the darkest days,’ bolstered by richly twangy guitars and an unmistakable Ringo backbeat.”

What makes this “06880”-worthy is that Tashian is the son of Barry and Holly Tashian. The Staples High School Class of 1963 graduates have made their home in Nashville for many years, where they wrote and recorded.

Barry also played with Emmy Lou Harris and the Flying Burrito Brothers. Before that, he played guitar and sang lead vocals with the Remains.

The Boston-based band were called “how you told a stranger about rock ‘n’ roll” (by Jon Landau), along with — had they not broken up — a contender with the Rolling Stones for the title of “World’s Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band.”

In 1966 — after appearing on “The Ed Sullivan Show” and “Hullabaloo” — they opened for the Beatles, on their final US tour.

Nearly 60 years later, Barry’s son and Ringo have kept the Remains/Beatles connection alive.

Daniel Tashian

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If you were like most Westporters (including me), you spent yesterday indoor.

There were football games to watch, cups of cocoa to drink, cold to stay out of.

If you were this woman named Tanya, however, you headed to Compo Beach, took off most of your clothes, and walked right into the water.

(Photo/Patricia Auber)

Patricia Auber — who was there, though presumably dressed a bit more warmly — reports that Tanya stayed in, up to her neck, for at least 5 minutes.

Hopefully, hot cocoa was waiting at home.

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Marie Wilson of Gloversville, New York — a frequent visitor to Westport, where her daughter Diane Bosch lives — died January 5 after a brief illness in Saratoga Springs, New York. She was 93.

She majored in retailing at Lasell College. She was proud of her internship at Bergdorf Goodman in New York during college, and her lifetime membership in the PTA.

Marie was predeceased by her husband William E. Wilson after 60 years of marriage.

She is survived by her daughter Diane Wilson Bosch (Eric) of Westport; sons William (Joni) of Gloversville, and Paul (Sondra of Long Lake, New York; grandchildren Brett Wilson (Amanda); Greg Bosch and (Renee); Jenelle Wheeler (Ryan); Kate Boundy (Geoff); Nick Wilson; Emily Hunter (Ben); great- grandchildren Amelia and Theo Bosch; Ryder and Piper Wilson; Calvin and Beckett Wheeler; sister Barbara von Kreuter-Adams; many nieces and nephews, and even more friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to a local Parent Teacher Association.

Marie Wilson

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Saturday’s snowfall was gorgeous — but not enough to ski on.

Unless you’re Regan, hitting the “slopes” for the first time ever, at Burying Hill Beach.

Clare Madden sent along this way-too-cute “Westport … Naturally” photo.

(Photo/Clare Madden)

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And finally … Happy Stephen Foster Memorial Day!

Today commemorates the death of “the father of American music.” Foster died on this day in 1864. He was just 37 years old — perhaps by his own hand — but had already written more than 200 songs.

Among them:

(Hard times will come again no more — if you help support “06880.” Please click here, to contribute to your hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

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Remembering Bill Briggs

Posted on March 27, 2024 | 7 comments

Bill Briggs — the 1964 Staples High School graduate, car aficionado and keyboardist with the Remains, the band (with Staples alum Barry Tashian) that developed a cult following that remains strong today, and opened for the Beatles on their final, 1966 tour — died yesterday.

He turned 78 a few days ago, and suffered from multiple health issues.

Bill Briggs

His daughter Jen posted on Facebook:

As you all know, my dad was quite the rock star in more ways than one. Bill could build a hot rod in his garage to drag race in the desert, he played the blues and toured with the Beatles playing keyboard and harmonica with the The Remains in the 60s, was a damn fine Porsche/Audi salesman for many years, an avid train photographer, collage artist, patient advice giver, along with one of the most hip rock and roll dads you’ll ever meet.

Bill Briggs (far left) and fellow Remains Chip Damiani, Barry Tashian and Chip Vern Miller.

My brother Jake and I will miss him so much, along with his partner Barbara Simon and his extended family.

We will have a small gathering for my dad near Boston at some point soon. Yesterday, he requested we join in on singing “Knockin on Heaven’s Door” with the music therapist. He chimed in clearly, singing, “put my guns in the ground!”

Miss your sense of humor and understanding already, Dad.

Bill Briggs, George Harrison, and Beatles tour manager Neil Aspinall on tour in August, 1966. (Photo/Bob Bonis)

Tributes poured in, from fans and friends from Bill’s many stages of life.

Remains guitarist Vern Miller wrote:

I can’t even begin to express how shattered I feel with Bill’s passing. We played together in The Remains for 57 years and were friends for almost 60 years. We toured together all over the U.S and Europe and shared so many adventures like the 66 Beatles’ tour.

Just last week we were clowning around on the phone about that great band in the sky. I told him if he gets there before I do, please make sure they know what kind of bass amp I want.

Bill, in his inevitable way of not missing a beat, quickly asked me where I wanted it placed on stage. He kept his humor right up to the end.

Michael Haydn recalled playing with Bill in the Westport band the New Schemers, in 9th through 12th grade.

Tom Hatch remembered working on cars with Bill, in the Downshifters hot rod club.

I was a Remains fan from junior high on. I felt so fortunate to get to know Bill later, as a friend.

In 1966, the Remains played a Staples High School fundraiser for the Orphenians’ upcoming trip to the Virgin Islands. Staples grads Bill Briggs (right) and Barry Tashian flanked the school’s music director and Orphenians founder John Ohanian. 

One of the true highlights of my life came about 20 years ago, in the basement of Gail and Terry Coen’s Soundview Drive home.

The Remains got together for the first time in about 30 years. They had been “rediscovered” in Europe, and were ready to embark on an overseas tour.

I was there at the first rehearsal, the moment they started playing and singing again. Their joy at being together again — and the sheer, incredible power of their musical talent — was astonishing, and overwhelming.

The Remains in 2019. From left: Chip Damiani, Barry Tashian, Bill Briggs, Vern Miller. 

Bill was an “06880” fan, always interested in his hometown, and the people he grew up with here.

In the mid-’60s, rock critic Jon Landau — channeling John Sebastian — said the Remains were “how you told a stranger about rock ‘n’ roll.”

Today, Bill Briggs’ many admirers remember him, and his magic.

Click below to enjoy some of the greatest rock music of all time.

 

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Posted in Entertainment, Obituaries, Staples HS

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Roundup: COVID Vaccine, Beach Stickers, The Remains, Invasive Plants …

Posted on March 26, 2021 | 4 comments

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In case you missed it: Connecticut has moved up the date for all eligible residents 16 and over to get COVID vaccines. It’s now April 1 — no fooling!

An increased supply of vaccines will enable 200,000 doses to be distributed next week. That includes the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot.

You can call 877-918-2224, 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to schedule an appointment. Click here to schedule online.

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Beach stickers will be available this Monday (March 29). Click on the Parks & Recreation Department website, then “Memberships.”

At least a couple of beachgoers were ready yesterday for summer to begin:

(Photo/Karen Como)

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Westport hits the jackpot with this month’s Connecticut Magazine.

Local writer Michael Catarevas contributed an in-depth, insightful, and very intriguing look back at the Remains.

They’re the band — fronted by 1963 Staples High School graduate Barry Tashian, with ’64 alum Bill Briggs on keyboard — that packed clubs around New England, played “Ed Sullivan” and “Hullabaloo,” had a major recording deal — and in 1966, toured with the Beatles.

They were all set to be rock’s next big thing — until they weren’t.

I’ve written often about the Remains. Jon Landau nailed it, back in the day: “They were how you tell a stranger about rock ‘n’ roll.” Now Catarevas’ story — which includes details about their still cult-like status and recent tours — puts it all together, for a statewide audience.

Bonus cuts: There are sidebars about Briggs’ tour with the Kingsmen (“Louie Louie”),

Click here for the main story. Click here for one sidebar on ’71 Staples grad Fred Cantor’s off-Broadway play and film documentary on the Remains — and another on Prudence Farrow, the inspiration for the Beatles’ “Dear Prudence.”

The Remains

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A reader writes:

“In light of the town support of our Asian community, I want to share what I saw in New Luxx Nail & Spa (near the old Calico) earlier this week.

“A gentleman in uniform came in. I’m not sure if he was a police officer or firefighter. I heard him speaking to the owner and workers, who are Asian.

“He warmly told them that we (I assuming he meant Westport law enforcement) are very proud of and value our Asian business community. He said ‘we are here to support you,’ &Sp and that anything they need, or any issues they might have, they should not hesitate to contact them.

“I am proud of our community and law enforcement, that they made this outreach to these wonderful people of whom I have grown very fond. It is these unseen acts that help make Westport the place that it is.”

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Invasive plants have invaded Westport. They crowd out natives and are harmful to our natural resources, disrupting biodiversity and ecological processes.

Earthplace has partnered with Sustainable Westport and the Town of Westport to host 2 events.

The first is an in-person walk this Sunday (March 28th, 1 to 2:30 p.m., $10). Click here to register.

The second event is a free webinar on Sunday, April 11 (1- to 1:45 p.m). Click here to register.

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The Assumption Church Youth Group holds a food drive this Sunday (Palm Sunday, March 28, 7:30 a.m. to noon). Non-perishables are needed. All donations go to their sister parish in need — St. Charles in Bridgeport — and to children in the care of Missionaries of Charity in Bridgeport.

Donors should pull into the back parking lot. Someone will unload your trunk.

Meanwhile, tomorrow (Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.), Weston’s St. Francis Church holds a drive-through food drive in their parking lot on 35 Norfield Road. As with Assumption, volunteers will unload non-perishables from your trunk. All donations will be delivered to the Weston Food Pantry, and Norwalk’s Open Door Shelter.

Assumption Church, from Imperial Avenue (Photo/Patrick Goldschmidt)

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And finally … ladies and gentlemen: The Remains!

 

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Environment, Media, Police

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Beatles’ Final Tour Remains In Westport’s Memory

Posted on August 29, 2016 | 18 comments

Today marks the final concert of the 50th anniversary of the Beatles’ last US tour.

Also, the Remains’.

For local musicologists — and fans of the regionally famous band that included 2 Westporters, and lives on in the hearts and souls of anyone who heard them — that 2nd fact is as least as important as the 1st.

Fred Cantor — the band’s Boswell, who makes sure his fellow Staples High grads Barry Tashian and Bill Briggs (plus Vern Miller and Chip Damiani) “remain” alive, with an off-Broadway musical (“All Good Things”) and documentary film (“America’s Lost Band“) — sent along a reminder of the legendary summer of ’66 tour.

By then the Remains had already appeared on “Ed Sullivan” and “Hullabaloo.” They’d relocated from Boston to New York, and had a contract with Epic Records. But they had not yet broken into the big time, when they got the offer to tour with the Beatles (along with the Ronettes, the Cyrkle and Bobby Hebb).

Untitled

Tashian — the front man, just 3 years out of Staples — remembers not being able to get out of their car, on the way to their 1st concert in Chicago. Screaming fans thought they were the Beatles. He found it funny — and scary.

They could not use their own amps there — and did not even have a chance to try out the ones they were given. To musicians, that’s like walking on a tightrope without a net.

Indoor arenas — like Detroit, where the band could see the crowd — were excellent. “They were digging us,” Tashian told Cantor. “We were saying, ‘This is great. This is elevated to another place.”

But in large stadiums like Cleveland, the audience was too far away to make the connections the Remains thrived on. After that show, they met with their road manager. They second-guessed everything they did wrong — and right.

Barry Tashian (left) and Vern Miller, on stage. Drummer ND Smart (who replaced Chip Damiani on the tour) is hidden. Keyboardist Bill Briggs is not in the shot.

Barry Tashian (left) and Vern Miller, on stage. Drummer ND Smart (who replaced Chip Damiani on the tour) is hidden. Keyboardist Bill Briggs is not in the shot. (Photo/Ed Freeman)

Their interactions with the Beatles were limited, but memorable. Tashian says they had tons of energy, and great senses of humor. They did not take things too seriously.

Tashian learned a lot. “The world was a different place when you were with John Lennon,” he says.

The Westport guitarist also listened to Ravi Shankar with George Harrison. Indian music was a revelation. So was a new invention Harrison had gotten hold of: tape cassettes.

Six days before the end of the tour, the Remains and Beatles played Shea Stadium. Tashian calls it “an emotional moment.” The lights were the brightest of any place they played. With a rare break the night before, he felt rested, “a little more balanced and grounded.”

The Remains, back in the day.

The Remains, back in the day.

In California, near the end of the tour, Harrison sent a car to pick up Tashian. Meeting the Beach Boys, Mama Cass Elliot, Roger McGuinn and others, he was “speechless.”

Briggs — the Remains’ keyboardist — recalls the final concert, at San Francisco’s Candlestick Park:

“It just seemed like you were playing on a mountaintop and there was nobody there. They shut off the lights, all in the stadium proper and they just left a row of the lights on the top. It was like we were playing there by ourselves.

“I really enjoyed it. That was probably the most relaxed I was on the whole tour.”

What came next was tough. “It was like being dumped from a dump truck down over a ledge into a quarry or something, just left down there in the dust,” Tashian says.

He realizes now that his band had been breaking up — for various reasons — even before the tour began.

The Beatles kept recording, until they too broke apart. Today, of course, they’re still big — perhaps bigger than ever.

The Remains are just a footnote in rock ‘n’ roll history.

But to anyone who heard them play — particularly at small clubs, not the big arenas and stadiums of that 1966 tour — what a footnote they are.

Click here for “06880+”: The easy way to publicize upcoming events, sell items, find or advertise your service, ask questions, etc. It’s the “06880” community bulletin board!

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Posted in Entertainment, Looking back, People, Staples HS

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17 Soundview: The Sequel

Posted on March 30, 2016 | 21 comments

A “notice of demolition” sits on the front of the house at 17 Soundview Drive. Such signs are common in Westport. But this home is special.

For one thing, every Westporter knows it. We pass it whenever we walk or drive on the beach exit road.

For another, it has an amazing musical history. Two years ago — when the house was up for sale — I recounted the story, as if its walls could talk.

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Ginger Baker sent a drum set to the house. Peter Frampton lounged on the front deck. Carly Simon wanted to buy it.

Those are just a few of the musical memories associated with 17 Soundview Drive. It’s one of the most handsome homes lining the Compo exit road, drawing admiring glances from walkers and sunbathers for its beachside gracefulness.

If only they knew the musical history hidden throughout the property.

17 Soundview Drive.

17 Soundview Drive.

It was built — like the rest of the neighborhood — as a summer house in 1918. One of Frank Lloyd Wright’s students designed it, ensuring harmony with the beach environment.

Francis Bosco — current owner Gail Cunningham Coen’s grandfather — bought it in 1928. A Sicilian immigrant and lover of opera, he tuned in every Saturday to NBC Radio’s live Met broadcasts. For years the voices of Enrico Caruso, Maria Callas, Robert Merrill and others soared from the living room, under the awnings and onto the beach, thrilling neighbors and passersby.

In 1982 Gail and her husband Terry Coen bought the house. She’s a musician and music teacher; he’s a songwriter and music promoter. Over the past 32 years they’ve lavished love on it. It was one of the 1st Compo homes to be raised, to protect against storms. The Coens added a secluded rooftop deck, and flower and vegetable gardens.

You can see the water from nearly every room in the house. This is the living room.

You can see the water from nearly every room in the house. This is the living room.

But the professionally designed, fully soundproofed music studio is what really rocks.

It — and the chance to hang out privately, yet in the middle of all the beach action — has made 17 Soundview a home away from home for 3 decades of musical royalty.

Ginger Baker spent many evenings talking about the birth of British rock, touring with Eric Clapton, and his childhood in England during World War II. He also recited some very bawdy limericks. In return, he gave Ludwig drums to Soundview Studios.

Ginger Baker, and his drums. (Photo/Wikipedia)

Ginger Baker, and his drums. (Photo/Wikipedia)

Peter Frampton brought his young family. They loved the warm summer breeze, and being able to sit anonymously just a few feet from the hubbub of a beach afternoon.

One summer day, Carly Simon said she was thinking of buying a beach house. #17 was her favorite, because it reminded her so much of Martha’s Vineyard.

Meat Loaf played Sunday morning softball at Compo. After, he headed to the Coens’. One day, he played his next single on the roof deck. No one on the beach could see he was there — but they heard him. At the end, everyone applauded.

The Remains reunited for the 1st time in decades in the studio. (Full disclosure: I was there. It was one of the most magical moments of my life.)

Eric von Schmidt loved to sing by the fireplace, and joined jam sessions in the studio. One day, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott rambled over with him.

Other regulars included Jimi Hendrix’s bass player Noel Redding; Corky Laing and Leslie West of Mountain; former Buddy Miles Express front man Charlie Karp; Eric Schenkman of the Spin Doctors, and guitarist/producer/songwriter Danny Kortchmar.

17 Soundview - roof deck

The rooftop deck is a great place to watch fireworks. It’s also where Meat Loaf played his next single, to the unknowing delight of a Compo Beach crowd.

Some of those musicians — and plenty other great ones, though less known — were guests at the Coens’ annual July 4th fireworks parties. The food and drinks were fantastic, capped off by watching the passing parade on Soundview.

But the real action happened when the fireworks ended. Everyone piled into the studio, and jammed till the sun came up.

From Caruso to the Spin Doctors, 17 Soundview Drive has seen it all. If only those walls could talk (or sing).

(The new owners will replace the 98-year-old house with a handsome new one. They’re making sure it fits in well with the streetscape. We’ll continue to admire 17 Soundview Drive. We’ll just sing a different song.)

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Posted in Beach, Entertainment, Looking back, People, Real estate

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Remember The Reverbs?

Posted on October 18, 2015 | 2 comments

Plenty of Westporters remember the Remains. Their lead singer and keyboardist were from Westport. They toured with the Beatles. They were on track to be America’s best rock ‘n’ roll band — until they broke up.

Not many Westporters — perhaps none? — remember the Reverbs. I’m pretty good with local rock trivia, but I’ve never heard of these guys.

The Reverbs’ guitarists were Larry Didona, Ken Josselyn and Bob Erisman. Fred Erisman was on drums; Gerry Lenore sang lead.

Apparently they cut a record — a big deal in those days — in November 1965. Like many local groups, they were a cover band. Among the songs: “Twist and Shout,” “Hang on Sloopy,” “Get Off My Cloud,” “Money,” and (of course) “Louie Louie.”

Reverbs

The only way I know of the Reverbs is because alert “06880” reader Chip Stephens sent me a link to eBay.

“The Reverbs Chalk-Up” album is still available — but act now! Bidding ends on Tuesday at 9:10 p.m.

Last I saw, the highest bid — of 2 — was $10.50.

I’m sure there’s at least one Reverbs fan here who can top that.

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Posted in Entertainment, Looking back

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Diddy Wah Diddy!

Posted on July 10, 2015 | 18 comments

Willie Dixon was born 100 years ago this month. The Chicago blues musician, arranger and record producer influenced many generations of artists, from Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf and Bo Diddley to Bob Dylan, Cream, the Doors, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones.

Willie Dixon

Willie Dixon

He wrote over 500 songs, including “Back Door Man,” “Little Red Rooster” and “I Just Want to Make Love to You.”

Willie Dixon also wrote “Diddy Wah Diddy.” It’s been recorded by Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty and Captain Beefheart.

Westporters know — and love best — the version by The Remains.

Featuring Staples grads Barry Tashian (vocals/guitar) and Bill Briggs (keyboards), they opened for the Beatles on their 1966 tour. The Remains performed on “Ed Sullivan” and “Hullabaloo.”

Rock journalist Mark Kemp said if they had stayed together, “we might today be calling them — and not the Stones — the World’s Greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll Band.”

Springsteen’s guitarist, Little Steven Van Zandt, called the Remains “living history, and one of our most valued American treasures.”

And Rolling Stone magazine described them as “a religious totem of all that was manic and marvelous about mid-’60s pop.”

But they dissolved before most Americans ever discovered their greatness. They got back together a while back, and — though drummer Chip Damiani died last year — still occasionally perform to ecstatic audiences.

Now “Diddy Wah Diddy” is about to get a new life — with another Westport twist.

Staples Class of 1970 grad Bill Banks — whose real job is banking — spent the past year developing Billion Planets Music. Emerging artists and seasoned veterans to work together, in music and video production.

Westport's Charlie Karp, at the hometown Blues, Views & BBQ Festival, has long known

Westport’s Charlie Karp, at the hometown Blues, Views & BBQ Festival, has long known “Diddy Wah Diddy.”

A group of those musicians — including Charlie Karp, who dropped out of Staples in 1970 to tour with Buddy Miles, and later played with Hendrix — has recorded a new version of the song. Banks calls the 2015 genre “blues/hop.”

He liked the collaboration so much, he contacted Willie Dixon’s family in Chicago. They loved it. During the centennial of his birth, it may be included in some of the Blues Heaven Foundation events they’ve planned.

Meanwhile, Banks is starting work on a movie about life in North Miami, as seen through the eyes of Hans Louis. He’s the “emerging artist” singer on the new recording.

“Hans grew up there,” Banks says. “The theme is that it’s an urban/modern ‘Diddy Wah Diddy’ place.” (The Remains’ Tashian sang: “She don’t come from no town, she don’t come from no city/She lives way down in Diddy Wah Diddy.”)

You’ll have to wait to hear the blues/hop version. But just click below for the Remains’ take. They’re still rockin’, after 50 years.

(If your browser does not take you directly to YouTube, click here.)

BONUS HIT: Click here to link to a Gap commercial — shown only in India — featuring “Diddy Wah Diddy.”

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